Outdoor Summer Play: Unleashing the Potential of Nature
Submitted by Kyra Van der Kuil, YMCA of Lethbridge
As I reminisce about my childhood, one thing stands out like a beacon of joy: outdoor play! It wasn't just a pastime; it was a gateway to endless adventures and discoveries. Picture this: zooming around the yard on my bike, feeling the wind whip through my hair as I raced from point A to B (Physical Play). Or, imagine me, a pint-sized pop star, belting out tunes and busting moves in impromptu dance routines for my family's amusement (Dramatic Play). Then there were the epic feats of engineering—building bridges out of sticks and mud to conquer the mighty creek (Constructive Play). And let's not forget the thrill of the hunt, scouring fields for elusive grasshoppers, each capture a triumph of observation and patience (Observational Play).
But wait, there's more! With summer upon us, it's time to unlock the full potential of outdoor play. So, buckle up, adventurers, because I've got a treasure trove of fun ideas to make this summer one for the books!
Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items commonly found in nature like leaves, rocks, flowers, or specific types of trees. Kids can explore their surroundings to find these items, encouraging observation skills and appreciation for nature.
Obstacle Course: Set up a simple obstacle course using items like cones, hula hoops, and ropes. Include activities such as crawling under a branch, jumping over hurdles, and balancing on a beam. This helps develop gross motor skills and coordination.
Water Play: On a hot day, water play can be incredibly refreshing and fun. Set up a kiddie pool, sprinkler, or water table with cups, funnels, and water wheels for endless entertainment.
Sidewalk Chalk Art: Provide children with colorful sidewalk chalk and let them unleash their creativity on the pavement. They can draw pictures, create hopscotch grids, or even trace each other's shadows.
Outdoor Picnic and Storytime: Arrange a picnic in a nearby park or backyard, complete with sandwiches, snacks, and juice boxes. After eating, gather the children for a story time session under a shady tree.
Gardening: Teach children about plants and gardening by letting them plant flowers or vegetables in pots or a designated garden area. They can learn about the plant life cycle, responsibility, and patience as they watch their plants grow.
Animal Watching: Take children on a nature walk and encourage them to observe birds, insects, and other wildlife. Provide binoculars or magnifying glasses to enhance their experience and spark curiosity about the natural world.
DIY Outdoor Games: Get creative and make your own outdoor games like ring toss, bean bag toss, or giant Jenga using recycled materials or inexpensive supplies from a craft store.
Bike Riding or Scooter Races: Organize a bike or scooter riding session. Set up cones to create a course or simply let the children enjoy cruising around.
Outdoor Art Studio: Set up an outdoor art station with easels, paint, brushes, and canvases. Children can paint landscapes, self-portraits, or abstract designs while enjoying the fresh air and natural light.
In closing, outdoor play goes beyond recreation, offering an array of benefits—from physical movement to cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being. By embracing the wonders of the great outdoors, we empower children to embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and boundless exploration.
Sources and references
Playing outside: Why it’s important for kids. (n.d.). HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/power-of-play/Pages/playing-outside-why-its-important-for-kids.aspx
De Lannoy, L. (2022, January 17). Why children need to play outside – now more than ever! Outdoor Play Canada. https://www.outdoorplaycanada.ca/2022/01/17/why-children-need-to-play-outside-now-more-than-ever/
WebFX. (2024, March 22). The different types of play. Playworld. https://playworld.com/blog/the-different-types-of-play/?lang=can
Photo: YMCA Canada